How to Avoid Cell Phone Fees

Is your cell phone bill out of control? Five ways to save on cell phone fees.

By: WSLS-TV Staff Reports | WSLS
Published: February 06, 2008

We live on our cell phones ... And it shows on our bills. While I can't make you spend less time on your phone -- there are some ways to cut back on those cell phone fees that sneak up on you. With a little help from the websites smartmoney and telephonitis -- here are five ways to save.

In the market for a new phone? Many companies charge an "activation fee" or "new handset" fee. Smartmoney.com says you can sometimes get it waived with a quick call to customer service.

Now that you have a new phone -- your company will probably offer you insurance to replace your phone if it's lost or damaged. Consumer advocate David Wood of telephonitis.com says insurance is usually not a good idea. He points out you still have to pay the monthly premium and a deductible. And Wood says there's a very good chance the phone you'll be sent is a refurbished or used one.

It's tempting to play along at home by texting your favorite TV show like "Deal or No Deal." The show's website says it has temporarily stopped the popular "Lucky Case Game." But when it's available, it costs 99-cents per text -- that's on top of normal texting charges from your carrier. Bottom line -- check the charges before you text.

Ever tried to get out of a cell phone contract? You can be charged hundreds in "Early Termination Fees." But you may be able to get around them. Go to a website like celltradeusa or cellswapper. For a fee -- these sites put you in touch with people who will take over your contract.

And David Wood says there's something called "The Materially Adverse Clause." Basically, if your carrier changes something about your plan -- they'll send you a notice with your bill. It will give you 14 to 30 days to get out of your contract without any termination fees.

When you're outside your network -- roaming fees add up. Some companies allow you to change your phone settings to only make or accept calls in your network. That avoids roaming charges. Check under the menu key to see if there is a setting called "roaming." Then, set it to "network only." Check with your provider if you need help setting your phone to "network only."

And above all, look at your bill closely each month to make sure those fees aren't adding up.